An attacker will attack the targets that appear easiest. They will avoid those that appear to know what’s going on and might put up a fight. When you are out in public, look people in the eye, keep your head up, and walk confidently. This will take away their element of surprise and they will likely pass you up for an easier target.

Learn to trust your instincts and listen to what you intuition tells you. When you feel something doesn’t seem right, bring your senses to full alert and be prepared to fight and escape as soon as possible.

If you think you are being followed cross a street, then move towards a well-lit and populated area. Use the reflection from windows, pictures and shadows to raise your awareness of what’s going on around you.

These are your greatest allies. Criminals fear these three things, because they increase the chances that they will be seen and caught. Always try to travel in groups and in open, well populated areas, especially at night. Avoid dark and isolated areas especially when you are alone.

Use your imagination on ways you can distract your attacker. You could act passively, appearing to submit to your assailant’s wishes, only to attack them when they least expect it. You could talk with the attacker, to relax them slightly, moments before you launch an attack of your own. Stay calm and keep thinking, it can make a difference

I am constantly visualizing defeating my opponent months before our fight even takes place. You too should use visualization as a tool for self-defense. Address your fears before you are confronted with them to train you mind to react quickly under the intense stress of an assault.

Imagine yourself in a dangerous situation and visualize what actions you might take to survive and escape. Mental preparation while you are in a safe environment is the key.

This type of visualization drill has to be done on a regular basic to be effective. Try to do it daily for a few minutes whenever you have some spare time.